General​/Vascular Sonographer TTWP - Tappahannock

The practice of ultrasonography is performed by an ultrasound technologist responsible for the administration of high frequency sound waves and other diagnostic techniques to humans of all ages (newborn to geriatric) for medical purposes. A Sonographer/Technologist performs ultrasonography procedures and related techniques, producing images at the request of and for interpretation by a licensed independent practitioner. Ultrasonography integrates scientific knowledge, technical skills, patient interaction and compassionate care resulting in diagnostic information.

A Sonographer/Technologist recognizes patient conditions essential for successful completion of a procedure.

Sonographer/Technologists must demonstrate an understanding of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical terminology. They recognize patient conditions essential for successful completion of the procedure and exercised independent professional and ethical judgment. They are the primary liaison between patients, licensed independent practitioners and other members of the support team. They must remain sensitive to the physical and emotional needs of the patient through good communication, assessment, monitoring, and care skills.

Participation in quality improvement processes and continuous assessment of performance is expected.

Sonographer/Technologists think critically and use independent, professional, and ethical judgment in all aspects of work. Engagement in continuing education to enhance patient care, public education, knowledge, and technical competence is expected in this role.

• Perform diagnostic ultrasound procedure or examination upon the order of, or for diagnostic interpretation by a licensed independent practitioner (LIP).
• Determine ultrasonic frequencies and appropriate transducers for the anatomic area of interest.
• Assist a LIP with interventional procedures such as needle localizations, aspirations, biopsies, drainages, etc.
• Maintain records, respecting confidentiality and established policy.
• Apply principles of patient safety during all aspects of procedures, including assisting and transporting patients.
• Receive, relay, and document verbal, written, and electronic imaging orders in the patient’s medical record.
• Corroborate patient’s clinical history with the ordered procedure while ensuring information is documented and available for use by a licensed independent practitioner (LIP).
• Verify informed consent.
• Assume responsibility for patient needs before, during, and after procedures. Prepare patients for procedures.
• Apply principles of ALARA to minimize exposure to patient, self, and others.
• Perform venipuncture per procedural protocol based on imaging order from a licensed independent practitioner.
• Start and maintain intravenous access per procedural protocol based on an imaging order for a LIP.
• Identify, prepare, and/or administer medications generally associated with diagnostic imaging procedures as prescribed by a LIP.
• Evaluate images for technical quality, ensuring proper identification is recorded.
• Identify and manage emergency situations until appropriate LIP, EMS, MERT, RRT, or Code Team arrives to assume control.
• Provide patient education related to imaging procedure.
• Educate, mentor, and provide general oversight of students and other learners in the Radiology environment.
• Participate in ongoing quality assurance activities.

• Certification by the American Registry of Radiology Technologist (ARRT) as a sonographer ARRT(S) or RDMS certification in medical sonography or RDCS or CCI certification in cardiac sonography or RVT certification as Vascular Technologist.